Carolina Stephanie
Words by Ryan Mitchell
Photography by Adam Luk and Tony Einfeldt
Carolina Stephanie is a Chilean model who is a shy person deep down inside, until she’s in front of the camera. Carolina is also one that opposes the stereotypes of modeling, like the stereotypes of stupidity and and “just another pretty face.” After joining the modeling scene two years ago, Carolina started modeling seriously after one year. Still, she needs to make ends meet and doubles her modeling life with a part-time job, which has become the norm for aspiring models. Still, Carolina perseveres and continues to show what she’s made of.
Describe yourself:
I’m a pretty shy person believe it or not. The reason why it’s taken me so long to get to where I am is because I’m a bit more reserved and quiet. On the flip side, those that know me best and take the time to talk to me usually say I’m pretty weird and funny but mostly weird… and I totally agree!
What is the business side of modeling?
No one really does photo shoots or events just for fun. There’s always a purpose such as selling an image or product. With that said, like a business you have to generate income-nothing is free.
How does a female model recognize unique body parts of hers?
Well for myself just going over and critiquing my work shows me what I have that stands out and what works for me. Even just posting my images on the net and seeing people’s feedback shows me what others perceive as beautiful. For me, I always get comments on my eyes and smile =)
What moments define you?
When I’m with my bf, my family and pets! They know me best and when I’m with them, that’s the time that I am truly me. No holds bar.
What’s behind your ‘look’?
I’m me and I don’t try to be anyone else. There are sooo many pretty girls in Vancouver and they all want to be models (me included) but there isn’t too much that sets them apart. I know some girls feel that if they aren’t 6’0” tall they can’t do fashion and settle for being eye candy.
I don’t limit myself even though I know I will never be a fashion model or do runway shows. If you look at my portfolio and the type of work I have done you will see my versatility and character. Definitely not one sided and that shows in my work and it’s something I’m very proud of.
What can a picture show?
It can show the person you want to be, emotions you don’t usually show, life and happiness! And this translates every time you look at a picture be it now or 5 years from now.
What elements do you always have to keep in the modeling industry?
You have to keep an open mind. You can’t have the, “I’m too good for this”, attitude cause that limits your opportunities. Anything from a little fashion show to a start up fashion line is a good way to gain experience as well as get you face and name out there. Exposure is always a good thing.
Describe beauty in nature:
Animals sum it up for me. I’m totally fascinated and blown away with all the different types. I’ve been in Vancouver since I was 2 and every time I see a bird like a blue jay I jump up and go nuts! Same with rabbits, eagles squirrels. Things we see everyday and sometimes take for granted are usually the most beautiful things in life.
What does Vancouver hold for you in the future?
As far as what I hope to do as a career, there aren’t too many possibilities here.
I want to act, sing and model and the market isn’t huge here so I will eventually have to go abroad for that. But my mom and brothers are here so this will always be my home, plus this is where I got my start a year ago!
Do you consider your Latin heritage to be unique in this city?
Definitely.
To this day I still only know about a handful of Latinos. A lot of people don’t even know where Chile is. I’ve had a couple people ask if it was in Europe! lol I think I should start carrying around a globe…I love it though, one more thing that sets me apart!
What does HYPE mean to you?
HYPE means being out there, enjoying life, being super loud and getting noticed!
It’s being apart of something big